Cherry blossoms return to the tropics at the Blossom Bliss floral display, now showing at Gardens by the Bay.

Over 20 varieties of sakura (cherry blossoms) and peach blossoms are planted around the Flower Dome, in what appears to be a much larger-scale display than last year’s Blossom Beats.

Just like the real Cherry Blossom season in Japan and Korea, the blooming period will be very limited, making this display the shortest one of the year.

In anticipation of large crowds (and there will be), chains of barriers are set up around the gardens for crowd control. Admission to the flower dome may be restricted to timed tickets for specific timeslots.

However, once you’re inside, there is no time limit – although the crowds will keep on coming. It appears that the Flower Dome may open earlier than 9am. Also, during this period, tickets are for single entry only. No re-entry stamp will be issued.

If you’re thinking that this will be a peaceful floral display where you can slowly drink in the surroundings – think again, with smartphones and camera lenses being pushed around everywhere.

There are however, several stunning varieties to capture, and it’s much easier to capture the flowers than to take portraits here.

Not all the trees have bloomed, and visiting late in the season isn’t ideal too – some might have wilted. It is unlikely that the Gardens will replant those.

So I’d suggest visiting sometime this weekend. And bring a jacket if you plan to stay in the dome for a while – the climate in this conservatory is set lower to some 18-20 degrees to allow the blooming to endure.

Interspersed throughout the trees are simple Japanese-style props and sets. Nothing too fancy to detract from the main attraction.

Blossom Bliss at Flower Dome

From now till 24 March 2017.

Cherry blossoms lasts 1-2 weeks and the display may end sooner. Gardens by the Bay will update blooming status on their Facebook page.